starfishalicja | ExpatWoman.com
 

starfishalicja

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Latest post on 26 September 2013 - 08:54
Dear Ladies, I know this has been done to death and I will also call the RC but wanted to check for some advice from you as well. We have a lovely LL so don't really want to go 'to war' with him but we have lived in our little TH for 3 years, have invested a lot of time and money for improvements and just making it home. We have just renewed our tenancy contract within the required time frame. The new contract is a regular renewable contract starting 29th September. My husband signed the contract and handed it to the LL for signature and we are waiting to get it back. Now.......yesterday we received an email stating that he is selling the property and he is herewith giving us the required 12 month's notice following the expiry of our [b'>current[/b'> contract. Now that expires in [b'>3 days![/b'> I am under the impression since we have already renewed the contract (despite the actual contract not having started yet) that this 12 months should be from expiry of the renewed contract, isn't it? And also, since we already renewed shouldn't the new LL be the one to serve the notice? Also, If the new LL buy with the intention to rent and not for own use, when it comes to contract renewal then, are we treated like brand new tenants or does the new LL have to use the current rent value for the rental calculator and apply the appropriate applicable increase? I'm really upset thinking about having to move to a small apartment with 2 big dogs and a growing child because we won't be able to afford even the smallest garden :-( We are not in the position to buy to be able to avoid this ;-(
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Latest post on 23 September 2013 - 10:49
In addition to Lulu Barsha, I have seen some in Marks & Spencer, MOE. M&S C4 Lulu They are everywhere :-) I have checked these places and they are the regular 'flat' underskirts. I am looking for a petty coat like this http://www.rocknrollbride.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/rainbow-skirt-idea-2.jpg
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Latest post on 23 September 2013 - 08:43
If you are in Sharjah then all of K M Trading centers are selling in very cheap price. I think 10 dhs. it is very comfortable and nicely stitched. HTH Hi sunlight, not in Sharjah but thank you for the hint :-)
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Latest post on 23 September 2013 - 08:07
Thank You Ladies, I will have a look there :-)
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Latest post on 22 September 2013 - 12:56
Ooops sorry! bavaria-lederhosen.com/ It's all in German, but use a page translator. Super Danke! Luckily I don't need the translator :-)
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Latest post on 22 September 2013 - 12:20
I just ordered mine from a site in Germany. Many do online/mail order and lots have discount offers on at the moment as well. Would you mind sharing the site address FD?
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Latest post on 22 September 2013 - 09:19
Does any of you lovely ladies know where I could get an adult size petty coat / tutu? I need it this week so it's a bit late for having it made. Any suggestion is appreciated TIA <em>edited by starfishalicja on 22/09/2013</em>
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Latest post on 17 September 2013 - 15:10
Does anyone know if the discount card is still being offered, or have I missed the boat? take a patience pill; then call and see +971 800 802 Izzy, you are THE rudest individual I have come across on this forum in a loooooong time! Do you work for the company? No don't work for them, I only commented because most of Izzy's comments on other threads are also rude and obnoxious............
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Latest post on 17 September 2013 - 12:14
Does anyone know if the discount card is still being offered, or have I missed the boat? take a patience pill; then call and see +971 800 802 Izzy, you are THE rudest individual I have come across on this forum in a loooooong time!
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Latest post on 17 September 2013 - 10:41
I agree with the comment about K9 and maybe also check other organisations. Regarding Boxers being stub nosed and having problems I don't entirely agree. I have two pure breed Boxers and they are very healthy and don't have any problem with the climate. We do however take it easy with them during the hottest months. Very early and Very late walks only but they take themselves into garden frequently even in July/August. Both don't know any different as one was born here and the other I adopted from a family who brought him in from abroad at 4 months. @forever 21: Please look at the shelters first, there are Boxers to be found sometimes and if not please consider a different dog that will steal your heart :-)
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Latest post on 16 June 2013 - 14:38
I just hosted my 6y DD's birthday party at 'Play A'round Some palce Nice' It is a glow in the dark mini golf venue. All kids and adults alike loved the party and had lots of fun. It is in the Marina. <em>edited by starfishalicja on 16/06/2013</em>
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Latest post on 21 April 2013 - 12:12
Just adding to this thread again as husband has moved out to Dubai 2 weeks ago so as well as settling in to his new job has been busy looking at rentals. Last week he checked out apartments in Tecom and liked one apartment and that the metro was close for his commute to DIFC as well as for me to Umm Seqiem when I start my job and our son will be at EIS. Next week he is viewing a couple of places in JLT. We He wants to find an apartment by mid May when he needs to move from his serviced apartment that his work have put him up in and for our arrival by the end of May. Any pros/cons of either area for family life? Anyone know of good estate agents in either Tecom or JLT that they could refer us to? Anything else we may need to consider? Thanks! To add to your list of places to consider : Have a look at Sports City. It is in-between Motor City and Victory Heights. Good size apartments, chiller included and all have swimming pools. There is construction going on but you can get buildings that are away from it. 2 beds for as low as 58K In the cooler months you can take the bike to Motor City's cafes and restaurants. And people 'sneak' into our parks in VH :) With the new road links opened, it takes 20 mins to DIFC along 311/66 and 15-20mins to Al Sufouh on Hessa street or down Um Sequim
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Latest post on 15 April 2013 - 11:26
Sorry by now you probably found them but if not try the light shops on the service road from Markaz al Bahja. I was only visiting for that one weekend and actually haven't found anything then. I am coming back again this weekend and have a wee bit more time to search. Please ladies, if you can give me any valuable hint where to go i'd really appreciate it. Every home in Muscat has ceiling fans, they must be sold somewhere but I have no clue where to even start looking. Many Thanks ! <em>edited by starfishalicja on 15/04/2013</em>
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Latest post on 25 March 2013 - 12:47
Hi; does anyone know where I can buy Riedel Glasses in Dubai, broke one and want to replace it before its noticed. It's not in Dubai but Barracuda has Riedel Wine glasses. You could ring up Tavola and ask if they have them. Also, if i'm not completely mistaken, i think i saw them at MMI. Might be worth a call. HtH
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Latest post on 21 March 2013 - 11:27
If your Daughter turns 6 in July, then I think she technically qualifies for Y2 placement at DIA in September. However, I would advise against this as she will be the absolute youngest in her class and will no doubt struggle with the IB program which starts to get really tricky in Y3. Also, if the school that youmention happens to be TCG, they are notoriously behind in terms of reading so your DD might struggle of she wnt straight into year 2. The other issue is that TCG is not registered with the KHDA so you will not be able to get a transfer certificate to prove that she has completed Y1. My advice would be for a Y1 placement. edited by derien on 21/03/2013 @ derien: spot on regarding her current school. Now my problem with DIA is that they are strict in their age placement and will not allow DD to go into Y1 because as per her age she would be Y2. I'm a bit put off by that as it seems they would rather set her up for failure and make her repeat a year later, rather than giving het the chance to catch up now when she wouldn't notice anyway. It would be much harder for her later on when she sees her friends move up and she would have to potentially stay behind :( @ Pikachu: Maybe 'laim' was the wrong expression and in no way directed at DIA. What i mean is, some schools just let the kids carry on at their own pace and don't push them to improve and achieve better. edited by starfishalicja on 21/03/2013 But even so, DIA cannot admit her in Y2 because you will not be able to prove she has completed Year 1 because they are not allowed to provide a transfer certificate. THEY ARE NOT A SCHOOL. The TCG is aware of this problem!!!! In my instance that is actually good news then :) Thank you for this info, derien!
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Latest post on 21 March 2013 - 11:25
oh ...did you mean "lame" ?? Yes :) that's the one :) English is my 4th language and spelling not so strong. I was wondering why its coming up with the red underline LOL
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Latest post on 21 March 2013 - 10:35
If your Daughter turns 6 in July, then I think she technically qualifies for Y2 placement at DIA in September. However, I would advise against this as she will be the absolute youngest in her class and will no doubt struggle with the IB program which starts to get really tricky in Y3. Also, if the school that youmention happens to be TCG, they are notoriously behind in terms of reading so your DD might struggle of she wnt straight into year 2. The other issue is that TCG is not registered with the KHDA so you will not be able to get a transfer certificate to prove that she has completed Y1. My advice would be for a Y1 placement. edited by derien on 21/03/2013 @ derien: spot on regarding her current school. Now my problem with DIA is that they are strict in their age placement and will not allow DD to go into Y1 because as per her age she would be Y2. I'm a bit put off by that as it seems they would rather set her up for failure and make her repeat a year later, rather than giving het the chance to catch up now when she wouldn't notice anyway. It would be much harder for her later on when she sees her friends move up and she would have to potentially stay behind :( @ Pikachu: Maybe 'laim' was the wrong expression and in no way directed at DIA. What i mean is, some schools just let the kids carry on at their own pace and don't push them to improve and achieve better. <em>edited by starfishalicja on 21/03/2013</em>
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Latest post on 21 March 2013 - 08:24
how much does a volvo xc90 cost? or any other 4WD? we had to leave our Volovo xc90 in UK and have been without a car since moving to Dubai couple of months ago. any car dealer recommendations? thanks Are you looking foe a new one or 2nd hand? I'm selling my XC90 as upgraded to 7 seater. It is however a 2006 model.
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Latest post on 24 February 2013 - 09:39
Bump Does anyone else have a recommendation? Jinglejangle, thank you he will contact Kerry.
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Latest post on 20 February 2013 - 09:54
Number 1, you are not going crazy! Your feelings are your 'personal GPS' that something is wrong and needs to be addressed. You mention 'it hasn't always been like this' so I'm curious to know when things began to change - what happened just prior to those changes? The first thing I would ask you is, if you were to start all over again with your husband, how would you 'design' this relationship? What would you do more of? What would you do less of? How would it FEEL to be in this amazing relationship you just designed? Do these questions excite you or tire you just thinking about them (how much appetite do you have left for this man?) Do you have access to suitable support (counselling, coaching etc) where you live? I know a great relationship coach if you would like his number! Best wishes and I hope you create a happy outcome for you and your family. Not wanting to hijack this thread, but could I please have the coach's number. I am facing similar problems for quite while now and would like to give it a try. My 10 year anniversary is next week :( username at gmail TIA <em>edited by starfishalicja on 20/02/2013</em>
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Latest post on 19 February 2013 - 07:50
Pozdrawiam Mariola Cieślik Kierownik SPK w Dubaju tel. +971 55 1530424 " This is the contact for the Polish School in Al Barsha. Theuy are using the AL MAWAKEB school right next to the Pond Park. It is however a school for children PreK to Grade 12 on Saturdays. Maybe Mariola can point you in the right direction regarding Polish lessons though. hth
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Latest post on 30 January 2013 - 20:40
Thanks, just trying to work out if the Gold seats are all level or are they elevated? Have a child with us so if the Golds are just flat levels then visibility for them may be a problem, I am guessing the Silver is raise row after row... Any idea? This I don't know. But maybe you could call the World Trade Centre and ask what the set up will look like. They would surely know.
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Latest post on 30 January 2013 - 20:26
It doesn't actually start until Feb. 6th. The gold seats are the same type as Silver but better visibility of the stage. Hth :-)
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Latest post on 23 January 2013 - 18:58
I have searched high and low over the years for a decent salon to do nail extensions / acrylics, and have been disappointed at every turn. Tips and Toes charge an absolute fortune and none of the branches I have visited (at least 5) have ever done a good job, plus they take 2 - 3 hours with an inexperienced nail technician filing slowly and 8 beauty therapists watching and giggling. I've literally driven the length and breadth of Dubai looking for a decent salon akin to the ones in London usually run by Chinese people who use drills and can put on a full set within 1hr and charge 20 pounds, and no joy. The only place that comes close is Beauty Connection Spa on SZR and I hear they have now opened a new branch in Jumeirah so I will be checking that out soon. As for gel vs acrylic, I prefer acrylic as it is harder and lasts longer, whereas I find gel also hurts when they put it under the UV light. Have you tried Galina's Salon in Al Barsha? This is the only place that does Acrylics to European/US standard. Gina or Lanes are brilliant. They use LCN drills and are super quick. I had acrylics done in the States and was struggling to find anything decent until Galina's It's not cheap but excellent quality work that lasts. Give them a go. :-)
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Latest post on 19 December 2012 - 07:32
gentle bump for today :)
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Latest post on 05 December 2012 - 09:00
I love the look of this Hotel and its right in our budget ! i would love to stay there! But the Suites are one room and that's no good for us as the baby will wake everybody up! Really we need some sort of kitchen. Any other recommendations? :-) http://www.katathani.com/accommodation/two-bedroom-suite.html#room this is the link to the two bdr suites http://www.katathani.com/accommodation/two-bedroom-villa.html#room and this to the 2bdr villas. In the 'buri wing' they also used to have apartment style rooms with a little kitchenette thingy, but since the renovated a couple of years ago I'm not sure if they are still there. maybe worth giving them a call. Have I mentioned yet, I loooooooove it there?!?! lol HTH
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Latest post on 04 December 2012 - 20:16
I was looking for another hotel today, hubby is gonna kill me I've already changed a booked hotel twice! We want something quiet not in a lively area, near the beach 4 or 5 star, we need 2 bed rooms and a kids club can anyone recommend somewhere? :-) http://www.katathani.com/ We are going there for the last 3 years with DD and before she was born as well. Our DD is 5. We loooooooove it there! It is quiet not in the main tourist stretch. Eniugh families to have other kids to play with. Brilliant kids club and plenty of restaurants to chose from. Have I mentioned yet we looooove it there?!?! Have a look :-) <em>edited by starfishalicja on 04/12/2012</em>
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Latest post on 27 November 2012 - 12:31
My DH and I are both banking with ADCB for years and are super happy with their service.Our accounts are at the branch in Emaar business park in The Greens. I can only recommend them. We banked with mashreq before but moved for similar reasons as described below and just general incompetence.
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Latest post on 27 November 2012 - 10:49
Preya, I also would love the details of your detox :) username at gmail com tia
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Latest post on 01 November 2012 - 12:09
The apartment buildings are Sports City not VH. Residents if those buildings don't enter VH to get home. Yes, the many tall apartment buildings in Sports City adjacent to VH - would you know when they are meant to complete? If the apartment buldings are occupied, I'm wondering if the area is going to be of higher density and does it look like everyone would end up sharing the same access roads to get into this area? http://goo.gl/maps/fvD6n IMO it is difficult to know that. It will be years for those buildings. The majority isn't even being built atm. VH has two more access points other than the one you marked. I'm not at home and can't place the pins on the phone in order to show you where they are sorry. The only time I curse living in VH is when a cricket game is on. But luckily that isn't too often. The positives definitely outweigh the rest.
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Latest post on 01 November 2012 - 11:33
I'd go for VH over FC. When do the many tall apartment buildings adjacent to VH complete roughly, do you know? Hello I have 2 friends who live in Carmen at VH lovely villas I dont know about the apartments though sorry I don't doubt the villas are lovely. Wondering when the buildings are completed (and how congested would the area be when the buildings are occupied). The apartment buildings are Sports City not VH. Residents if those buildings don't enter VH to get home. I live in VH and love it. We have lots of greenery, playgrounds and for the past year finally our pools and gym. With the two new intersections being completed any moment now, it will be even easier to get to places and back. And with Motor City on the doorstep we have an abundance of amenities. HTH :-)
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Latest post on 18 October 2012 - 15:05
You can get the Cloud Nine O rollers from Salon Ink and Harvey Nicks are selling the ones that you can sleep in, sleeprollers - I think they are called. Thank you for that, i didn't think of these as I was hoping to find something a wee bit cheaper but will have a look in case I really can't find anything else.
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Latest post on 07 October 2012 - 09:11
I had been driving a Mohave for the past three months (not here in this country), and I have to say I was impressed. (Just returned last Saturday) It was a V8 (don't know if they all are) and the performance was great. I felt very comfortable from the first time I drove it and, actually, am missing it. It was roomy, comfortable, didn't feel huge, and handled quite well. I can't comment on its long-term performance, but I do know it is not a newer model -- probably a 2011 or 2010. I hope people can give you more information but I honestly had no complaints. Thank you norak :-) Does anyone have some feedback from driving one here? Especially A/C and fuel consumption? Tia
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Latest post on 06 October 2012 - 20:28
Hi ladies, We've gone to look at cars today and I really like the the value4money of the Kia Mohave. We need a solid large 4x4 but without the price tag of a Landcruiser or Tahoe. Can any of you give me some feedback on performance, AC, service and general comfort and driving? (We looked at the top of the line due to airbags) Many thanks :-)
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Latest post on 30 September 2012 - 21:05
Also, if you are interested in finding carpenter or having yourself do it as a family project, I personally like this lady and her web site: http://ana-white.com/plancatalog Lots of pottery barn copy projects for a fraction of what PB is charging. And many other plans and options, as other ppl are submitting their versions of furniture based on the plans she gave out. U would be surprised(if not shocked) furniture that gets copied and price tags. I'm looking to make farm table she has in her plans and some other bits and bobs.. This is brilliant, thank you so much!!!! I will definitely look into this!
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Latest post on 30 September 2012 - 17:48
Just want to offer sympathy. Last year I bought a bed for my dd at the regular PB store, and it was delivered with a crucial piece missing. After many frustrating visits and phone calls and being told incorrectly I'd have to order it and pay for it separately, it took a month to get that piece. I did contact Al Shaya and they assigned a complaint number and followed up. It was all through customer care though, no specific contact for you, I'm afraid. I am also appalled and frustrated by the fact that you can bring an American brand to the UAE, but you cannot, apparently, bring its associated level of customer service. So no help, but I hear ya... Thank you, the bit of sympathy really is appreciated :-) Thing is, if like in the US, UK, Europe or any other civilised part of the world ,you could go to an abundance of other stores or order a similar qualityand style item online I wouldn't be anywhere near as upset. But here you have one choice for this type of furniture so nowhere else to turn :-(
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Latest post on 30 September 2012 - 16:28
Just wondering if you asked them to check the warehouse-or asked for a rain-check-even if you wouldn't have had the 20% discount? I did everything I could to make them check the stock. I was getting answers that were obviously never really checked but I wasn't to know that at the time. It isn't about getting the bed anymore. I just want HQ to know about the mess up and consequent lack of customer care and lack of willingness to rescue the situation.
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Latest post on 30 September 2012 - 16:19
Sorry to say this but you made the fatal error of not going yourself..... it's a bed, there are other beds - chalk it down to experience and now you KNOW that SA are lazy and morons. I didn't go myself because I physically wasn't able to! But thank you for your kind words and assistance.
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Latest post on 30 September 2012 - 15:06
Does any of you have a contact at Al Shaya, I could get in touch with? I would really appreciate any help. Tia <em>edited by starfishalicja on 30/09/2012</em>
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Latest post on 30 September 2012 - 13:49
I recently bought a whole load of camp furniture from them in the sale. I found it took absolutely ages to place the order, but the best way to do it is grab the store manager and have them do it with you. They do have a centralised order system, so they can see all stock in both shops, and the warehouse. We got a good deal, and it is def worth getting on their list so that for example you find out about things like last thurs promotion. Re the beds, have you checked Kendall? That is also a lovely off white bed. We went for Camp in the end as we chose navy. Good luck, i know how frustrating it can be Thank you for your suggestion re Kendall. We did check them all but Thomas was the one we both fell in love with. And all other ones are not in sale so way beyond what I can afford. I was actually dealing with the supervisor so was hoping for some competence. How wrong I was!! ;-( <em>edited by starfishalicja on 30/09/2012</em>
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Latest post on 30 September 2012 - 13:43
I soooo wish I would have gone to DM on Friday but I simply couldn't because of other commitments :-( I am so upset you can't even imagine :-(
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Latest post on 30 September 2012 - 13:28
I was offered the extra 20% on Friday as well which made the bed My DD and I wanted even more attractive. I normally can't afford the PBK furniture prices here so this episode of customer care is like a knife in my back being turned and twisted! ;-(
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Latest post on 17 September 2012 - 17:30
haha! I am indeed. We're in Carmen Village and i'm always looking for new Vino Neighbours.haha. Will drop you a note once we've moved. We are in Oliva. Looking forward to meeting you. Sure DHs will enjoy the odd hops as well ;-) <em>edited by starfishalicja on 17/09/2012</em>
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Latest post on 17 September 2012 - 16:38
We live in VH and love it! Welcome soon to the comunnity :-) Judging by your username, are you married to a chef? I'm a chef's wife and forever alone (awful hours) Look me up for a vino when you've moved in :-) Username at gmail
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Latest post on 11 September 2012 - 20:36
Thing is you don't have to commit to anything. I think that is the reason why it works for me. I go when I want to and don't feel pressured because I 'signed' and paid for something. I'm going 4 times s week and am seeing great results. You can go as often or as little ad suits you. If you join the 'challenge' you pay a weekly fee that includes 4 sessions us dietary support and loads other support mediums. Have a look at their page and FB for more info.
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Latest post on 11 September 2012 - 10:15
Wow! That is some great achievements! Congrats!! I've started CF 5 weeks ago and lost 5kg and 5cm around my waist! What I live about it is that there is no Barbie Dolls around like in most of Dubai gyms. We are all there to either get fitter and stronger or to lose A LOT OF WEIGHT nit to look pretty in full make up. The motivation from the trainers is wicked and the FB page is fantastic for keeping in touch and on track. They have a 'challenge' starting on the 23.which is perfect to kick start off of a plateau. You get a food plan and have to keep a diary which gets analysed each week to identify and eliminate problem areas. I don't work for them but found that it is the only thing that works for me. It's some psyco thing for me: whenever I joined and committed to a gym membership and paid upfront for a longer period I NEVER went and the money was waisted. It was that looming thing of 'you have to go you paid for it' With CF you pay per session as you go and guess what?: I go 4 times a week voluntarily! It's addictive!
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Latest post on 03 September 2012 - 21:17
Metness, where do you live? Drop me a line @ username at gmail.com
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Latest post on 27 August 2012 - 18:21
Both the buffets at Saffron Atlantis and Mazina TADM have excellent live chinese stations with freshly prepared ramen soups
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Latest post on 27 August 2012 - 18:18
We were returning this summer with my DDs passport valid for less than week. She has a british pp with a valid residence visa for Dubai. The airline staff did look a bit baffled and had to make some 'very important phone calls' but in the end we flew without any problems.
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Latest post on 13 May 2012 - 21:53
No, too many spelling mistakes for those prices! ;-)